What Is Rongoā?

What is Rongoā?

Rongoā is the traditional, holistic Māori healing system. It draws upon the medicinal properties of native plants and integrates physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing.

Long before pharmaceuticals arrived in Aotearoa, Māori relied on native plant-based remedies to keep themselves and their mokopuna healthy. Through rongoā, Māori developed a wide range of treatments to fight infection and disease.

Healing plants were used to make decoctions, splints, brews, infusions, and teas to treat wounds, skin conditions, internal illness, digestive disorders, bleeding, muscle pain, fractures, headaches, and more.

Rongoā is the accumulated body of knowledge that teaches how to do this safely and effectively.

Rongoā in Practice

As a holistic system, rongoā addresses illness affecting the mind, body, and spirit. Healing may involve restoring mauri (the life force), bringing balance with tapu (natural law), and healing wairua (spirit).

Incorporating Rongoā into Modern Life

Rongoā continues to be practiced today. However, many native plants used in rongoā can be toxic if used incorrectly, and sustainable harvesting is essential.

For these reasons, proper rongoā training is extremely valuable for anyone seeking to apply this knowledge safely and respectfully.

Healing Plants Used in Rongoā

• Koromiko — contains active phenolic glycosides and was traditionally chewed to treat diarrhoea and dysentery. During World War II, dried koromiko leaves were issued to New Zealand soldiers for this purpose.
• Pūriri — leaves were used in infusions to treat ulcers and sore throats.
• Kawakawa — leaves were chewed for abdominal pain and toothache, and applied to cuts and wounds.
• Harakeke — the sticky gum was applied to painful boils and deep skin infections.
• Kōwhai — contains toxic alkaloids and therefore requires specialised rongoā knowledge. However, when prepared correctly, the bark, flowers, leaves, and sap were all used medicinally.

Why is Karakia Important in Rongoā?

Karakia is an essential part of rongoā practice. It acknowledges the spiritual dimensions of healing, seeks guidance and protection, and ensures the work is carried out with respect for both people and the natural world.

Rongoā was one of the Māori cultural practices targeted by the Tohunga Suppression Act 1907, which forced the practice underground until restrictions were lifted by the Māori Welfare Act 1962.